a primitive root; properly, to pick up, i.e. (generally) to gather; specifically, to glean; gather (up), glean.
Transliteration:lâqaṭ
Pronunciation:law-kat'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew verb `{{H3950}}` (lâqaṭ) is a primitive root whose core meaning is "to pick up." This foundational sense extends into a broader semantic range encompassing "to gather" and, more specifically and significantly, "to glean." The nuance of "picking up" suggests a deliberate, often individual, collection of items, distinguishing it from more general terms for mass accumulation. When applied to "gleaning," it refers to the act of gathering the remnants left after a harvest, typically stalks of grain or fallen produce. This specific usage is deeply embedded in the legal and social fabric of ancient Israel, reflecting a particular method of provision and charity. The word implies an active, often laborious, effort on the part of the collector.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H3950}}` illuminate its varied applications and theological depth:
* **Manna Collection:** In the wilderness narrative, `{{H3950}}` frequently describes the Israelites' daily "gathering" of manna ([[Exodus 16:4]], [[Exodus 16:16]], [[Exodus 16:21]]). This context highlights divine provision, daily dependence on God's sustenance, and the importance of obedience to His commands, particularly regarding the Sabbath ([[Exodus 16:26]]). The act of gathering manna was a direct response to God's miraculous supply, demonstrating the people's active participation in receiving His grace.
* **Laws of Gleaning:** A pivotal use of `{{H3950}}` appears in the Mosaic Law concerning agricultural practices. Commands in [[Leviticus 19:9-10]] and [[Deuteronomy 24:19-21]] explicitly instruct landowners not to completely harvest their fields or vineyards, but to leave the "gleanings" for the poor, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. This is a divinely ordained system of welfare, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society had a means of sustenance through their own labor.
* **Ruth's Diligence:** The Book of Ruth vividly portrays the practice of gleaning. Ruth, as a Moabite widow, "gleans" in the fields of Boaz ([[Ruth 2:2]], [[Ruth 2:3]], [[Ruth 2:7]], [[Ruth 2:15]], [[Ruth 2:17]], [[Ruth 2:19]]). Her diligent and humble act of gleaning not only provides for herself and Naomi but also sets the stage for Boaz's benevolent actions, demonstrating how human faithfulness within God's established laws can lead to unexpected blessings and the unfolding of His redemptive plan.
* **Prophetic Contexts:** In prophetic literature, `{{H3950}}` can take on metaphorical significance, as in [[Isaiah 27:12]], where it describes the Lord "gathering" the dispersed people of Israel. Here, it speaks to God's sovereign act of restoration and re-gathering His scattered flock, promising a future redemption. Other uses include gathering goods under duress ([[Jeremiah 10:17]]) or collecting pieces for a pot ([[Ezekiel 24:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{H3950}}` is often contrasted or associated with other terms for gathering. While `{{H622}}` ('āṣap) is a more general term for "to gather" or "to assemble" (e.g., people, a general harvest), `{{H3950}}` (lâqaṭ) specifically emphasizes the act of "picking up" individual items or "gleaning" remnants. Another less common word for gleaning is `{{H6684}}` (ṣāphar), particularly in reference to birds.
The concept of `{{H3950}}` is inextricably linked to:
* **Divine Provision (מָן - man):** The manna narrative highlights God's daily, miraculous care for His people.
* **Social Justice and Compassion (חֶסֶד - ḥesed):** The laws of gleaning are a tangible expression of God's covenant kindness and His concern for the marginalized, embodying principles of charity and equity within the community.
* **Harvest (קָצִיר - qāṣîr):** The broader context of agricultural bounty and the distribution of its yield.
* **Redemption and Restoration:** In prophetic usage, the "gathering" of Israel points to God's ultimate plan to restore His people.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3950}}` is multifaceted:
1. **God's Faithful Provision:** The repeated use of `{{H3950}}` in the context of gathering manna and the laws of gleaning powerfully demonstrates God's commitment to providing for His people. Whether through miraculous means in the wilderness or through established social structures in the land, God ensures that basic needs are met. This underscores His character as a benevolent and caring Provider.
2. **Divine Mandate for Compassion:** The command to leave gleanings is a profound expression of God's heart for the vulnerable. It is not merely a suggestion but a divine ordinance, embedding social welfare directly into the agricultural cycle. This law teaches Israel to reflect God's own *hesed* (covenant loyalty and kindness) towards the poor, the stranger, the widow, and the orphan, demonstrating that true worship includes practical care for others.
3. **Human Diligence and Dependence:** While God provides, the act of lâqaṭ requires human effort and diligence. The Israelites had to go out daily to gather manna; Ruth had to labor in the fields. This illustrates that divine provision often works in conjunction with human responsibility and initiative, fostering both trust in God and active participation in one's own sustenance.
4. **Hope of Restoration:** In prophetic visions, `{{H3950}}` signifies God's ultimate act of gathering His scattered people, implying a future of restoration, reconciliation, and renewed covenant relationship. This transforms the humble act of "picking up" into a powerful metaphor for divine redemption.
### Summary
The Hebrew verb `{{H3950}}` (lâqaṭ) primarily conveys the meaning "to pick up" or "to gather," with a specialized and highly significant usage meaning "to glean." Its biblical occurrences are rich with theological meaning, particularly in the narratives of manna collection and the Mosaic laws concerning gleaning for the poor. lâqaṭ serves as a powerful testament to God's faithful provision, His divine mandate for social justice and compassion towards the vulnerable, and the necessity of human diligence and dependence. Furthermore, in prophetic contexts, it anticipates God's ultimate act of gathering and restoring His people. Thus, lâqaṭ moves beyond a simple physical action to embody profound truths about God's character, His covenant relationship with humanity, and the ethical responsibilities of His people.
TRV